Hotel Portmeirion Restaurant, Portmerion, Wales

Portmeirion is a complete, uninhabited (apart from tourist guests), village and hotel. The entire place was created by the architect Clough Williams-Ellis from 1925 to 1976. He wanted to show how a naturally beautiful site could be developed without spoiling it. The village is probably most famous as the setting for the Prisoner TV series.

We booked a cottage in advance to stay for one night, Friday 31st March on their dinner, bed & breakfast rate £278.

The 3-course Table d’Hote Menu Dinner in the restaurant is £45 but we had dinner included in our room rate.

Walking through the hotel to the restaurant is a delight. The whole place has the feeling of a stately home, with comfortable rooms where you can withdraw for a drink before or after dinner.

The restaurant was welcoming and we were soon looking at the menu and wine list. The wine list was extensive and looked expensive – I was looking for a bottle of Malbec and was pleased to find that it was one of the least expensive at £25.

We were offered some delicious bread, truffle butter and an amuse bouche.

For a starter: Seared king scallops:

Main was sole:

For pudding a soufflé:

It really was a delicious meal.

The staff were friendly and a little nervous. They should relax as most diners aren’t fussed about strict formal service – and the food is good enough to speak for itself.

I signed the bill and added a tip, but now I realise that only the total without tip appeared on my bill.

The bathroom was also worth a visit!

After dinner, many withdrew to one of the rooms in the main building for drinks.

I’d recommend this restaurant for dinner, although I imagine the only dinner guests are those staying in the hotel and cottages.